"We support you": Iranian women's football team members take up visa offer amid fears over return

The Australian government has granted humanitarian visas to seven members of the Iranian National women's football team to stay in Australia. Amidst relief from the supporters within the community and fears for the remaining players, critics say the government's proposed visa legislation will leave other visa holders in the region stranded.

Protesters are seen demonstrating outside of Royal Pines resort as a bus carrying Iranian players and staff departs Royal Pines resort on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Iranian soccer players who received humanitarian visas after staging an on-pitch protest against their country's regime. (AAP Image/Russell Freeman) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP / RUSSELL FREEMAN/AAPIMAGE